My 03 5AT idle has been dropping lower lately (last month or 2)... used to idle 750 rpm rock solid, now fluctuates around 450 - 500 and is affecting the quickness off the line (seems like it's running lean also...)

I read many many threads about potential causes and solutions: such as resetting ECU, checking for airbox or vacuum leaks, and cleaning the MAF. There were several threads that ruled out resetting the ECU as a fix/ don't believe it's vacuum related - but do think the MAF sensor might be dirty (or have a thin film of oil) from my Stillen Intake.

Question: is the MAF the white electronic connector to my air intake? And if yes, how should I clean it/ with what? I'd really appreciate the help as I miss my acceleration

 

(1)

 

try contact cleaner. you can get it at radio shack. the maf plugs into the unit that is attached to your cai, but i don't recall if it is white.

 

The MAF housing is located right behind your Stillen heat shield. It's the round black housing with the wire connector plugged into to it. The mass air flow sensor is the probe that sticks down inside the housing. Be very careful if you decide to clean it and you may want to have an extra $600 - $800 or so ready just in case. Before messin' with the MAF Sensor I'd try an ECU reset and maybe some quality fuel injector cleaner (I like Lucas) just for kicks and giggles.

 

thx guys - yeah, i recall in another thread that the MAF units are very expensive.. I do not want to start messing w/ it until i have a clear plan of attack.

 

dealer can clean the MAF for around $80. i did it myself but if you want to be sure you wont mess it up take it to the dealer and have them clean it. maibe you can just take the sensor so they dont see your car.

 

off topic but relating to your post... how are you reading the RMPs? Off tach or from a plug in unit?... Mine idles between 1st and 2nd hash marks on the tach which I presume is about 200-300 RMP since they are in 5 hash increments to each 1K, 2K etc... I asked a friend about 200-300 idle and was told it must be higher. Is the tach off or am I idling way too low?... I don’t notice performance problems so I'm not too concerned - just curious.

 

DONT CLEAN IT!.. screw that thing up and its gona be oen expensive bill for you lol.. do this:

Go to your local Nissan / Infiniti Dealer and tell them to reset your Idle Air Control!

 

i think ur right.. why clean it myself and take the chance of screwing it up.. i go to Tustin Infinity is OC and they seem to be ok about not freaking out about simple mods..

and yes OCG35, using the dashes.. but to be clear: I read them more as relative than actual RPM's.. meaning, I can specifically recall where my car used to idle.. (I assumed 750rpm) and i know that it now idle' at or below that same line (assume 500rpm).. the numbers are irrelevant/ the rpm idle 'bobble' and lower relative state is what my focus is.

 

So you are idling at the 3rd dash or so?... And it used to be closer to 4th?... Maybe my idle is low - mine idles between 1st and 2nd dash.